Update for the Center

Groundbreaking for the UpS Center for the Conservation of Medicinal Plants

The Center will house the Sanctuary herbarium collection, library, displays featuring medicinal plant conservation and the history of herbalism in Appalachia, teaching kitchen, classroom and office. The Center will be ready for a Grand Opening and UpS 25th Anniversary Celebration on September 21, 2019

Pictures don’t really capture the stunning wood – locally cut Ash from dead trees on the land – the views to the prairie from the classroom, or how the building fits into the hillside as a gentle reminder of the past and then wraps around to open up into the future – connecting place, time, and space.

To all our amazing members that believed a center for medicinal plant conservation is a worthy investment, thank you. A vessel to honor the eclectic legacy of American herbalism. As you can see, the form of this vision is taking shape. It’s really happening.

Hope everyone is well. Great progress happening here in Rutland. Lots going on here with the interns arriving, workshops at the sanctuary, traveling for events, collaboration with rural action on the Conservation Innovation Grant, and more.

We are waiting on doors to arrive anytime now,after that insulation will go in, then drywall will go up. Beams and ceiling have been oiled. Handicap ramp and parking is in and the final grade is scheduled for later this month. Front siding is being primed before it goes up and then top of facade will be capped and finished. All inspections to date have been passed and the final will be scheduled for late October or November. That’s all for now. Check back soon for more updates!